How Often Should You Change Your Car’s Oil?

Car maintenance is just one of the many minor hassles of owning a car, but it is essential for keeping your car in good condition. A void of your car’s warranty may result from not changing your oil in a timely manner and with the right products.

According to car experts, the standard oil change interval of every three months (4,828 kilometers) is old news, and most cars can travel far before needing a change.

It won’t benefit your car if you change your oil more often than necessary. You are wasting money, time, and resources by doing this as well. It’s also important to keep in mind that throwing away oil that’s still usable impacts the environment.

Oil changes are recommended based on four factors specific to you and your vehicle:

  • On a regular basis (1,609 kilometers or 1,000 miles)
  • Approximately every 3,000 miles (4,828 kilometers)
  • Between 5,000 and 7,500 miles (8,046 and 12,070 kilometers)
  • Approximately every 10,000 to 15,000 miles (16,093 to 24,140 kilometers)

Don’t forget that even if you change your oil regularly, you may still need to change your oil filter. It is possible for some oil filters to handle long intervals between oil changes, but not all of them. To find out how often your car’s oil filter needs to be replaced, check its owner’s manual.

Consider different oil change intervals in the context of different circumstances.

Change Every 1,000 Miles

First, why would some experts recommend intervals of 1,000 miles if they say 3,000 miles is too often? All depends on how you drive. You should change your oil more often than every 3,000 miles if most of your driving consists of trips of less than 10 miles (16 kilometers):

  1. You won’t be able to boil off condensation from the system if you don’t make long, steady trips at high speeds (like you would on a highway). As a result, oil can break down more quickly.
  2. You wear out your car’s engine the most when you start it, and if you don’t drive very far, most of the driving you do is hard on it. The damage can be minimized by changing the oil more frequently.

It is still necessary to change your oil twice a year, even if you drive less than your recommended service interval.

Change More Frequently

According to some car experts, the 3,000-mile interval serves the oil change shops’ best interests, since the more often you come in, the more money they make. Even so, if you have an older car with an oil change interval of 3,000 miles, you should probably follow it.

Based on what is recommended in most car owners’ manuals, Scientific American advocates longer intervals, specifically every 5,000 to 7,500 miles (8,046 to 12,070 kilometers). Oil change intervals of 5,000 miles and 7,500 miles are becoming increasingly common, but some manufacturers advise taking your driving style and habits into consideration.

For instance, if you usually drive 20 minutes or more and maintain a fairly steady speed throughout the drive, you are a perfect candidate to increase the interval between oil changes. When it comes to older cars, however, you should follow the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.

Change Every 10,000 Miles

Synthetic oil can last up to 10,000 miles between oil changes if your car’s manufacturer recommends it. There are many advantages to using synthetic oil over regular oil, even though it is much more expensive. Aside from performing better than regular oil, it is also better for the environment.

However, opinions differ on whether upgrading is worth it. In 2022, Consumer Reports said you shouldn’t switch to synthetic fuel if your car does not require it, despite the recommendation of some experts. The extra strain on your car’s engine can be eased by using synthetic oil if you frequently tow heavy loads.

Your engine can be prolonged in life by using synthetic oil if it’s prone to sludge issues (because it gets clogged with residue from degraded oil).

Common Factors That Influence Oil Change Frequency

How Often Should You Change Your Car's Oil

Other factors can influence how often you should change your oil, such as your car’s age and oil-life monitoring system, though the general rule of thumb is every 5,000 to 7,500 miles or more. Among them are:

  • Level of engine wear: Stop-and-go traffic or carrying heavy loads will cause the engine to wear out faster than those used for regular highway driving. The oil may need to be changed more frequently as a result.
  • Type of engine oil: Synthetic oil lasts longer and offers better protection than conventional oil, so cars that use synthetic oil can go longer between oil changes. If you are using synthetic oil, consult your owner’s manual for recommended intervals.
  • Quality of the engine oil: Using the wrong type of oil for your car will cause it to last less and need to be changed more frequently. This is why your vehicle manufacturer recommends using the specific oil grade.

Where Should You Get an Oil Change?

Check fluid levels and replace filters in your garage or driveway if you’re comfortable performing basic maintenance tasks. It’s best to leave the job to a professional if you are uncertain about your ability to do the job safely and correctly.

Usually dealerships are the most expensive option for oil changes, but they use high-quality parts and use the right oil grade for your vehicle. You should always check customer reviews to ensure a local independent repair shop is reliable, but independent repair shops are often cheaper than dealerships.

Fast, inexpensive oil changes are available at convenience stores, quick lube services, and discount chains. Just make sure you ask the type of oil they use and compare it to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Factors To Consider When Choosing an Oil Change Provider

When choosing an oil change provider, you shouldn’t just look at the cheapest option. Here are some other important factors to consider:

  • Quality of parts: Make sure the oil and filter you use are of good quality and meet your car’s specifications.
  • Technicians: Make sure they have the necessary skills and experience by checking their qualifications and training.
  • Other services offered: Many shops offer additional services along with oil changes, such as tire pressure checks and fluid top-offs. Find out if these services are included in the price or if they are extra.
  • Certifications and warranties: Ask your provider about certifications and warranties before you change your oil.
  • Convenience: Oil change providers can differ in terms of wait times, appointment availability, and opening hours.
  • Customer service: Look for a service provider with good customer service and who will answer your questions.

Keeping your car in good condition and extending its life can be done by following these guidelines. Keep an eye on the oil level and follow the manufacturer’s recommended service intervals for optimal performance. Low oil levels may result in engine damage that is not covered by your new car warranty.

What Those Dashboard Lights Mean

Newer model cars have a dash indicator that tells you when to head to the shop as part of what is known as an oil life monitoring system, which helps you keep track of the miles you drive between oil changes.

The system measures your mileage as well as the data from your driving, which is analyzed by the computer in your car to determine when to change the oil. It’s best to have the oil changed as soon as possible if the light illuminates, but it doesn’t necessarily need to be urgent.

The oil life monitor light may not appear on your dash if your car’s oil is not flowing properly due to a low level, a failing oil pump, a leak in the system, or some other problem. If you see the oil pressure light on your dash, you should stop driving immediately so as not to damage the engine.

Ensure your car doesn’t leak or burn oil by checking its oil at least once a month. Oil should be added if it is low. According to the Automobile Association of America (AAA), good oil should be a clear brown-black color, although color may not be the only indicator of oil life.

A murky or opaque oil suggests it’s time to change it, while a milky oil indicates that your engine is leaking coolant. There might not be a dipstick for checking oil on your car if it has one of the aforementioned oil monitoring systems.

Is there a moral to the story? If you’re not sure when to change your oil or how to check it between changes, consult your owner’s manual. Your engine will last longer if you follow these habits.

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Oil Change FAQs

Does oil go bad if you don’t drive?

Infrequent driving can still lead to oil degradation over time, so even if you drive much less than the service interval on your car, you should change your oil twice a year.

Can you go 10,000 miles with synthetic oil?

Yes, you can. It is possible to go over 10,000 miles with synthetic oil.

Is full synthetic oil worth it?

There is no doubt that synthetic oil can be worth it. Despite its high price, synthetic oil has many benefits over regular oil. Compared to regular oil, it performs better, is better for the environment, and lasts longer.

How often should you change your oil in months?

It depends on factors like your driving habits (e.g., stop-and-go traffic or highway driving), your mileage addition, and whether you use synthetic or regular oil.

When should I get my next oil change?

If you drive your car relatively often and maintain fairly steady speeds (rather than stopping and going all the time) and you normally drive 20 minutes or more, you are a prime candidate for increasing the interval between oil changes. You should, however, follow the manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule if your car is older.

Author

  • Teddy Parker

    I am Teddy Parker, the owner of CarZinity.com, where I share my passion for cars through expert guides and practical tips. With a deep love for the automotive world, I provide valuable insights to help drivers make the most of their vehicles. My goal is to offer clear and actionable advice that enhances both your driving experience and vehicle maintenance.

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